A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a hemicolectomy. Which of the following is a subjective indication that the client needs PRN pain medication?
The client's heart rate is 110/min.
The client is guarding their abdominal incision.
The client exhibits facial grimacing.
The client reports pain.
The Correct Answer is D
The subjective indication that the client needs PRN (as needed) pain medication is when the client reports pain. Pain is a subjective experience, and it is essential to address the client's self-reported pain level and provide appropriate pain management.
Explanation for the other options:
a) The client's heart rate is 110/min: An increased heart rate can be an objective indication of pain, but it is not a subjective indication. Subjective indications are based on the client's self-report or personal experiences.
b) The client is guarding their abdominal incision: Guarding the abdominal incision may suggest discomfort or pain, but it is an objective indication that can be observed by the nurse. Subjective indications focus on the client's self-report.
c) The client exhibits facial grimacing: Facial grimacing can be an objective indication of pain, but it is not a subjective indication. Again, subjective indications are based on the client's self-report or personal experiences.
In this scenario, the most reliable and appropriate indication for administering PRN pain medication is when the client reports pain, as this acknowledges the client's own perception of their pain level.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
b. FLACC Scale.
Explanation: The FLACC (Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability) Scale is a pain assessment tool commonly used for infants and young children who are unable to self-report their pain. It assesses five categories of behavior: facial expression, leg movement, activity level, cry, and consolability. Each category is scored from 0 to 2 or 0 to 3, depending on the specific scale used. The scores are then totaled to provide an overall pain assessment.
The FACES Scale, also known as the Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale, is a tool commonly used for children who can understand and self-report their pain. It consists of a series of faces with different expressions representing varying degrees of pain.
The Color tool is not a recognized pain rating tool. It may refer to an assessment of skin color, which can be used to assess oxygenation or circulation but not specifically for pain.
The Numeric scale is a pain rating tool that involves asking the individual to rate their pain on a scale from 0 to 10, with 0 being no pain and 10 being the worst pain imaginable. However, this scale may not be suitable for a 3-month-old infant who is unable to comprehend numbers or communicate effectively.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The nurse should inform the client that they can use an adhesive remover when changing the colostomy skin barrier. Adhesive removers are helpful in gently removing the adhesive residue left behind by the previous ostomy appliance. This can make the process of changing the colostomy skin barrier more comfortable for the client and help prevent skin irritation or damage.
Explanation for the other options:
a. "You should scrub the skin around the colostomy when cleaning." Scrubbing the skin around the colostomy can be harsh and may cause skin irritation or damage. It is recommended to clean the peristomal skin gently using mild soap and water, followed by thorough drying.
c. "You will need a device to suction stool from the colostomy bag." Suctioning stool from the colostomy bag is not a routine procedure for colostomy care. Colostomy bags are designed to collect stool, and emptying the bag as needed is the appropriate method of management.
d. "You should empty the colostomy bag when it is three-fourths full." The timing of emptying the colostomy bag may vary for each individual. It is generally recommended to empty the colostomy bag when it is one-third to one-half full to prevent leakage or discomfort. The client should be educated on monitoring the bag and emptying it as necessary based on their own output and comfort level.
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